The New England Sports Network (NESN) is a must-have for sports fans, especially those following the Boston Red Sox and Boston Bruins. With live coverage, exclusive content, and in-depth analysis, NESN remains one of the most sought-after regional sports networks.
If you’re a YouTube TV subscriber or considering cutting the cord, you may be wondering: Is NESN available on YouTube TV in 2025? This article explores NESN’s availability, why it’s missing from YouTube TV, and the best ways to stream NESN in 2025.
Is NESN Available on YouTube TV in 2025?
As of 2025, NESN is not available on YouTube TV. The channel was removed from YouTube TV in 2020 due to contractual disputes between NESN and Google (YouTube TV’s parent company), and it has not returned since.
This means YouTube TV subscribers cannot stream Red Sox and Bruins games directly through the platform. While YouTube TV offers a variety of sports networks like ESPN, FS1, and NBC Sports, it does not carry regional sports networks like NESN.
Why Isn’t NESN on YouTube TV?
The absence of NESN from YouTube TV is primarily due to licensing and cost disputes. Here’s why:
- Streaming Rights & Costs – NESN, like many regional sports networks (RSNs), demands higher distribution fees. YouTube TV has opted to cut costs by removing some RSNs from its lineup.
- Declining RSN Availability – Many streaming platforms have dropped RSNs due to the increasing costs of carrying these channels, affecting networks like NESN.
- YouTube TV’s Business Model – YouTube TV focuses on keeping its base price competitive, and adding RSNs would require higher subscription fees, which many users may not be willing to pay.
There have been no updates from YouTube TV regarding a potential return of NESN to the platform.
How to Watch NESN Without YouTube TV in 2025?
Although NESN is not on YouTube TV, there are several alternative ways to watch NESN live and on-demand:
1. NESN 360 – The Official NESN Streaming Service:
NESN 360 is NESN’s direct-to-consumer streaming service, allowing fans to watch live Red Sox and Bruins games without a cable subscription.
Features of NESN 360:
- Live streaming of NESN’s programming, including Red Sox and Bruins games.
- On-demand access to exclusive NESN content.
- Multi-device compatibility (available on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, and Fire TV).
- Subscription-based service (pricing varies, often around $29.99/month).
If you’re only interested in NESN content, NESN 360 is the best standalone option.
2. DIRECTV STREAM – Best Live TV Streaming Option for NESN:
DIRECTV STREAM is one of the few live TV streaming services that still carries NESN.
Why Choose DIRECTV STREAM?
- NESN is included in the Choice Package and higher (costs around $11.99/month).
- No long-term contracts – You can cancel anytime.
- Other regional sports networks were available in select areas.
This is the best alternative for those who want NESN with a broader channel selection.
3. Fubo – A Sports-Focused Streaming Service:
Fubo is another option for streaming NESN live. It’s a sports-first streaming service, offering a great mix of national and regional sports channels.
Benefits of Fubo:
- Includes NESN in regional areas.
- Over 150+ channels including ESPN, Fox Sports, and NBC Sports.
- Available in multiple packages (starting at around $79.99/month).
Fubo is ideal for sports fans who want a mix of regional and national sports content.
4. Over-the-Air (OTA) Antenna – Free Local NESN Access:
In some locations, NESN’s content can be accessed over the air (OTA) using an HDTV antenna.
Steps to Watch NESN for Free with an Antenna:
- Check Availability – Use a tool like AntennaWeb.org to see if NESN is available in your area.
- Purchase an Antenna – Choose an indoor or outdoor HDTV antenna based on your distance from NESN’s broadcast tower.
- Scan for Channels – Connect the antenna to your TV and scan for local channels.
If NESN is broadcast locally in your area, this is a great way to watch it for free.
5. NESN Nation – Free Streaming Option:
NESN launched NESN Nation in February 2025, a free, ad-supported streaming channel (FAST channel) available on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- The Roku Channel
- Twitch
- Plex
- Samsung TV Plus (coming soon)
NESN Nation offers NESN’s original programming but does not include live Red Sox or Bruins games. However, it’s a great free option for watching sports talk shows and analysis.
Will NESN Be Added to YouTube TV in the Future?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans to bring NESN back to YouTube TV. The ongoing dispute over licensing fees and distribution agreements has kept NESN off the platform since 2020. However, YouTube TV frequently updates its channel lineup, meaning there is always a possibility that NESN could return if a new agreement is reached in the future.
To stay informed, viewers should regularly check YouTube TV’s official channel list, follow NESN’s announcements for any new streaming partnerships, and monitor sports streaming news for updates on the availability of regional sports networks.
Conclusion:
In 2025, NESN is not available on YouTube TV, leaving fans of the Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins, and New England sports looking for alternatives. While YouTube TV offers a strong lineup of sports channels, NESN requires a separate subscription or a different streaming service.
If you’re looking to watch NESN, consider options like NESN 360, DIRECTV STREAM, or FuboTV, which provide access to live NESN coverage. Explore these alternatives now to never miss a game! Check out their trial options and pricing to find the best fit for your sports streaming needs.
FAQs:
No, NESN is not available on YouTube TV and has been absent since 2020 due to licensing disputes.
You can watch NESN through NESN 360, DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, or free options like NESN Nation.
Yes, NESN 360 streams live Red Sox and Bruins games as part of its subscription service.
The most affordable option is NESN Nation (free streaming) or using an OTA antenna if NESN is broadcast locally.
There are no confirmed plans, but streaming services change frequently, so it’s always possible in the future.
Anshu is a content enthusiast with a passion for exploring entertainment and media trends. At YouTrial.TV, he brings his knowledge of streaming platforms and recommendations to help users make the most of their viewing experience. Anshu enjoys staying up-to-date with the latest in the digital world and sharing valuable insights with readers.